| Tarleton State University Libraries | Unit 7 |
| USING LIBRARY DATABASES | |
| A
database is an organized collection of information, usually pertaining
to a particular subject, which offers online search features so users
can retrieve information about specific items. In many ways, databases
are like well-organized filing cabinets, which can be electronically
searched. Commercial publishers (also called vendors) create and sell database subscriptions. They also choose each database's software, contents (subjects and periodicals to include), and search features. Tarleton libraries purchase subscriptions to databases based on campus curriculum, patrons' needs, and collection policies. Subscription databases offer content that has undergone more screening for quality than much of the information that is freely available on the Internet. Also, subscription databases offer a wide array of scholarly journals; therefore, information in these databases is usually credible and written by authors with expertise in their fields. In addition, searches in subscription databases often yield more relevant results than can be obtained by searching the Internet. OVERVIEW: The components of this unit discuss and illustrate the following aspects of using Tarleton libraries' subscription databases:
GOALS: After completing this unit, you should be able to
Updated 5/2004 |
